A SCHOOL which has just 11 pupils is to close at the end of December, council bosses have confirmed.

Beauty Bank Primary in Forge Road, Stourbridge, will close at the end of the term when the children break-up for Christmas.

It hit the headlines in September when just 12 pupils turned up for the start of the new school year. One child has since left the school which has places for 210 kids.

The total staff at the school, including kitchen workers, is 16.

The under-threat school was saved from closure at one point. But mums and dads then opted to send their children to other schools over long-term concerns over its future.

Closure notices were published on September 21 and objectors had until November 2 to make their feelings known.

No objections were received by Dudley Council during the period and education bosses have now announced the closure will go ahead.

Coun Liz Walker, cabinet member for children's services, said: "This announcement ends a period of uncertainty the school has been through.

"The efforts of the acting headteacher, the staff and governors have ensured the remaining children have received good provision this term but this decision will allow all pupils to continue their education in larger, well maintained schools.

"While nobody wants to close schools, this closure will undoubtedly be beneficial for all parties in the long term."

The school is the smallest in the borough and admission numbers have been falling in recent years, making it the most expensive school per pupil in Dudley.

During the consultation, meetings were held for parents, staff and governors.

The proposals will see the school buildings being used as a children's centre, providing a wide range of services.

The Stourbridge Family Centre will also be re-located to the site from the building next door.